Just want to give an update on the process of finding contractors. Some lessons learned already...
- local people are great for recommendations (hardware store, paint store, anybody that has lived in an area for awhile)
- great recommendations don't always pan out
- some contractors care more about their reputations and tell you so
- egos should be checked at the door
- different contractors will rarely agree on how to approach a certain project
- prices will vary on the same project (greatly sometimes)
- hire somebody for a small inexpensive job first before letting them tackle the big ticket items
- get everything in writing with details about exactly what will be done, cost and terms (no verbal quotes)
- as a customer, being friendly and firm gets you farther than being confrontational